Visit Girona from Barcelona by Train: Complete Guide
Girona is one of the most charming cities in Catalonia, and it is also one of the easiest places to reach from Barcelona. Medieval streets, colourful houses along the river, an old Jewish Quarter and a huge cathedral at the top of a famous staircase are all packed into a small centre that you can walk around in a day.
The best part is the train. If you take the fast service, you can be in Girona in well under an hour, and the station is only a short walk from the old town. That makes it a very popular day trip, although plenty of people stay a night or two as well.
In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan your visit to Girona from Barcelona by train. We cover the different trains, journey times, tickets, stations, the best things to see, a simple one-day plan, where to eat and where to stay.
Why Visit Girona from Barcelona?
A Beautiful Medieval City Near Barcelona
Girona sits about 100 kilometres north of Barcelona, on the way towards the French border. It has kept much of its medieval character, with old stone walls, narrow lanes and quiet squares. After a few days in a big city like Barcelona, it feels calm and easy to enjoy.
Is Girona Worth Visiting?
The city is small, but there is a lot to see. You can visit a cathedral, walk along the old city walls, wander through one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, and take photos of the houses on the river, all in the same day. It is also a good base for food, with plenty of Catalan restaurants and cafés.
Girona as a Day Trip or Overnight Stay
Girona works well as a day trip because the train is quick and the main sights are close together. If you stay overnight, you get to see the old town in the evening and early morning when it is quieter, and you will have time to visit nearby places on the Costa Brava or in the countryside.
Barcelona to Girona Train:
How Far Is Girona from Barcelona?
The distance is roughly 100 kilometres. By train, it is a simple trip with no need to change, and trains run throughout the day.
How Long Does the Train Journey Take?
The journey time depends on the type of train. The fast trains take around 40 to 50 minutes. The regional trains are slower and usually take somewhere between one hour 20 minutes and one hour 40 minutes. These are approximate times, so always check the exact timetable for your date.
Which Train Companies Operate Between Barcelona and Girona?
Most services are run by Renfe, the main Spanish railway operator. You will see different names for the services, such as AVE, Avant, and the regional line known as R11. Which one you choose will affect the time, the price, and the comfort of the trip.
High Speed AVE and Avant Trains
The AVE and Avant trains are the quickest way to get from Barcelona to Girona. They are modern and comfortable, and you must have a reserved seat. They usually cost more than the regional train, but they save you a lot of time, which is useful if you only have one day.
Regional and Other Train Services
The regional R11 train is slower, but it is usually cheaper and more flexible. It stops at more stations and is a good option if you are on a budget or if you are staying near one of the other stations in Barcelona. Here is a quick comparison.
| Train type | Approximate journey | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| AVE or Avant | 40 to 50 minutes | Saving time |
| Regional R11 | 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 40 minutes | Lower fares and flexibility |
Where to Catch the Train in Barcelona
Barcelona Sants Station
Most people leave from Barcelona Sants, which is the main railway station in the city. All the fast trains to Girona leave from here. Some regional trains also stop at Passeig de Grà cia and El Clot, which can be handy depending on where you are staying.
How to Get to Barcelona Sants
Sants is easy to reach by metro, local train, bus or taxi. If you are staying in the centre, the metro is usually the quickest and cheapest way to get there. Leave a little extra time in the morning in case the station is busy.
Facilities, Luggage and Boarding Information
The station has cafés, shops, toilets and a luggage service. For fast trains, there is a short security check before you board, so plan to arrive about 20 to 30 minutes before departure. For regional trains, the process is simpler, but it is still a good idea to be there a little early so you can find the right platform.
Girona Train Station: What to Expect
Where Is Girona Train Station?
Girona railway station is on the edge of the centre, close to the main part of the city. It is small and easy to use, and you will not get lost.
Walking from Girona Station to the Old Town
The old town is within walking distance. It usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes on foot, depending on where you are going. The walk is flat for the most part and takes you through the newer part of the city before you cross the river to the old streets.
Taxis and Local Transport in Girona
There are taxis outside the station and local buses too, but most visitors do not need them. Girona is a compact city, and walking is the best way to see it.
Barcelona to Girona Train Tickets and Prices
How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?
Ticket prices change depending on the train, the day, and how early you book. As a general rule, the regional train is cheaper than the fast train. Since fares can change, check the current price on the Renfe website for your exact date rather than relying on a figure you saw somewhere else.
Where to Buy Barcelona to Girona Train Tickets
You can buy tickets on the Renfe website or app, at the ticket machines in the station, or at the ticket desk. Some travellers also use comparison sites. Buying on the official site is usually the simplest, and you can keep your ticket on your phone.
Should You Book Your Train Tickets in Advance?
For fast trains, it is a good idea to book ahead, especially at weekends, on public holidays and in the summer. Booking early gives you more choice of times and often a better price. For regional trains, it is less important, but it still helps to know your timetable.
Can You Buy Tickets at the Station?
Yes, you can. There are machines and desks at Barcelona Sants. The only problem is that the train you want could be full, or you may have to queue. If you are travelling on a busy day, buying online in advance is easier.
Train Ticket Tips for Tourists
Check the return time before you leave Barcelona so you know when the last convenient train is. Keep your tickets handy for security. Remember that fast train tickets are for a specific train, while regional tickets can be more flexible, so read the details when you book.
Step by Step: How to Travel from Barcelona to Girona by Train
Step 1: Choose Your Departure Time
Decide whether you want to leave early or take your time. For a day trip, a morning train gives you the most hours in Girona. Pick a return train in the evening so you are not rushing.
Step 2: Book Your Train Ticket
Book on the Renfe website or app, choose the type of train and pick your seat if the service allows it. Save the ticket on your phone.
Step 3: Arrive at Barcelona Sants
Get to the station with enough time to find your platform. Look for the departure board and check the platform number, which is usually shown shortly before the train leaves.
Step 4: Take the Train to Girona
Board the train and find your seat. The journey is short, so you will arrive before you know it. Keep your belongings with you and listen for the announcement of your stop.
Step 5: Explore Girona’s Historic Centre
When you arrive, head out of the station and walk towards the old town. Follow the signs or use a map on your phone. You will be in the historic centre within a few minutes.
Best Things to Do in Girona
Explore Girona Old Town (Barri Vell)
The old town is the heart of Girona. It has narrow streets, stone stairways, small squares and old buildings, and it is lovely to explore without a fixed plan. Take your time and look up at the details on the buildings.
Visit Girona Cathedral
The cathedral is at the top of a wide staircase with 90 steps, and it is one of the best-known sights in the city. The staircase is great for photos, and inside you can see one of the widest Gothic naves in the world. It is worth going in if you have time.
Walk Along the Medieval City Walls
You can walk along parts of the old city walls, which gives you wonderful views over the rooftops, the cathedral, and the countryside beyond. It is free to walk, and it is a good way to get an overview of the city.
Discover the Jewish Quarter (El Call)
El Call is the old Jewish Quarter, with narrow lanes and quiet corners. It is one of the best-preserved in Europe, and there is a museum that tells the history of the Jewish community in Girona. It is a peaceful place for a walk.
Photograph the Colourful Houses Along the Onyar River
The row of coloured houses along the Onyar River is the picture most people think of when they imagine Girona. The best views are from the bridges, and the light is especially nice in the morning and early evening.
Cross the Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles)
This red iron bridge was built by the company of Gustave Eiffel in the 1870s, which is why many people call it the Eiffel Bridge. It crosses the river near the colourful houses and is a nice spot for a photo.
Visit the Arab Baths
The Arab Baths are a medieval bathhouse in the old town. Despite the name, they were built in a Romanesque style with some Moorish influence. The building is small, but the room with the central pool and columns is very pretty.
Walk Through the Rambla de la Llibertat
This lively street runs along the river and is lined with cafés, shops and arcades. It is a great place to stop for a coffee or an ice cream and to watch people go by.
Discover the Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Several places in Girona were used when the television series Game of Thrones filmed here, including the cathedral steps and parts of the old town. If you are a fan, you can find the locations on foot or join a guided tour.
Enjoy Girona’s Cafés and Local Food
Girona has lots of small cafés, bakeries, and restaurants, and you will find something good wherever you stop. Try a local pastry and a coffee on a terrace in the old town.
The Perfect One-Day Girona Itinerary from Barcelona
Morning: Arrive and Explore the Old Town
Take a morning train from Barcelona and walk from the station into the old town. Start with a coffee, then wander through the streets and along the river to see the coloured houses.
Late Morning: Cathedral and Jewish Quarter
Climb the cathedral steps and visit the inside if you wish. After that, walk into El Call and explore the narrow lanes and the Jewish history museum.
Lunch: Taste Traditional Catalan Food
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Many places offer a set lunch menu on weekdays, which is often good value, and it is a nice way to try a few Catalan dishes in one meal.
Afternoon: City Walls and Onyar River
After lunch, walk along the city walls for views of the whole city. Then come back down to the river, cross the Eiffel Bridge, and enjoy the Rambla de la Llibertat.
Evening: Return to Barcelona by Train
Take an early evening train back to Barcelona. Check the timetable ahead of time so you can finish your day without stress.
Best Places to Eat in Girona
Traditional Catalan Restaurants
The old town and the streets around the river are full of restaurants serving Catalan food. Look for places that offer a menu of the day and use local ingredients. It is a good idea to book if you are visiting on a weekend.
Local Dishes and Food to Try
Try traditional Catalan sausage, rice dishes, fish stews, and local cheeses. One of the best-known sweet treats in Girona is the xuixo, a fried pastry filled with cream. It is a popular snack and a fun thing to try while you are walking around.
Where to Find Cafés and Bakeries
You will find cafés and bakeries all over the old town and on the Rambla de la Llibertat. They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a mid-morning break, or an afternoon coffee.
Best Time to Visit Girona
Visiting Girona in Spring
Spring is one of the nicest times to go. The weather is pleasant, the days are getting longer, and the city is not too crowded. It is a good season for walking.
Summer in Girona
Summer is hot and busy. You can still enjoy the city, but plan your sightseeing for the morning and evening and take breaks in the shade during the afternoon. Bring water and sun protection.
Autumn and Winter
Autumn is mild and pleasant, with fewer visitors. Winter can be cool, but it is quiet, and it is a good time to enjoy the old town without the crowds.
Girona During the Temps de Flors Festival
Every year in May, Girona holds the Temps de Flors flower festival. Gardens, courtyards and streets in the old town are decorated with flower displays, and the city becomes very busy. If you want to see it, book your train and your hotel well in advance.
Where to Stay in Girona
Best Hotels in Girona Old Town
Staying in the old town puts you right next to the main sights, and you can walk everywhere. It is a lovely place to be in the evening when the day visitors have gone home. Look for small hotels in historic buildings.
Luxury Hotels in Girona
Girona has a few high-end hotels, some of them in restored historic buildings. If you want a special stay, look for one close to the river or the cathedral.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
There are guesthouses, hostels and simple hotels, mostly a little way outside the very centre. Staying near the station can be a good way to save money, and the old town is only a short walk away.
Is It Better to Stay Overnight or Return to Barcelona?
If you only want to see the main sights, a day trip is enough. If you want a slower pace, want to see the city at night, or want to explore the surrounding area, stay at least one night. Since the train is so fast, you can also choose either option without much trouble.
Girona vs Other Day Trips from Barcelona
Girona vs Tarragona
Tarragona is known for its Roman ruins and its coastal setting, while Girona is better known for its medieval streets and river views. Choose Tarragona for history from ancient Rome and the sea, and Girona for old town atmosphere.
Girona vs Figueres
Figueres is best known for the Dalà Theatre-Museum. It is a good trip for art lovers. Girona has more to see in the streets themselves and is better if you want to walk around a historic centre.
Girona vs Montserrat
Montserrat is about mountains, the monastery, and the views. Girona is a city trip. If you prefer nature and hiking, go to Montserrat. If you prefer architecture and food, choose Girona.
Practical Tips for Visiting Girona from Barcelona
How Much Time Do You Need in Girona?
One day is enough to see the main sights. Two days let you slow down and explore more.
Is Girona Walkable?
The centre is compact, and nearly everything is within walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes, because there are cobbled streets and steps.
What Should You Pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sun protection in summer, and a light jacket in cooler months. A small bag is easier to carry around the old town.
Is Girona Suitable for Families?
Many families enjoy Girona. The walls, the river and the squares are fun for children. Keep in mind that some streets are narrow and have steps.
Accessibility and Travelling with Children
The old town has cobbles and steep stairs in places, which can be difficult with a pushchair or a wheelchair. Plan a route and check the accessibility of the places you want to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Girona from Barcelona by Train
Is There a Direct Train from Barcelona to Girona?
Yes. You can take a direct fast train or a direct regional train from Barcelona to Girona without changing.
How Long Is the Train Ride?
The fast train takes around 40 to 50 minutes, and the regional train takes roughly one hour 20 minutes to one hour 40 minutes.
How Much Are Train Tickets?
Prices depend on the type of train, the date, and how early you book. Check the Renfe website for the current fares on your day of travel.
Is Girona a Good Day Trip from Barcelona?
Yes, it is one of the best. The train is quick, the centre is easy to walk around, and there is plenty to see in one day.
Can You Explore Girona on Foot?
Yes. The old town is compact, and walking is the best way to see it.
Do You Need to Book Train Tickets in Advance?
It is not always necessary, but it is a good idea for the fast trains, especially at weekends and during holidays.
Is One Day Enough for Girona?
For most visitors, yes. You can see the main sights in a day, but you can also stay longer if you want to relax.
Which Barcelona Train Station Should You Use?
Barcelona Sants is the main station and the best choice for fast trains. Some regional trains also stop at Passeig de Grà cia and El Clot.
Girona is easy to reach, easy to walk around, and full of character. In less than an hour, you can go from the busy streets of Barcelona to a calm medieval city with beautiful architecture, great food, and a relaxed Catalan atmosphere.
Whether you go for the day or stay for a night or two, it is a trip you are likely to remember. Check the train times, book your ticket, and enjoy the visit. For more ideas, take a look at our other train travel guides from Barcelona, including Tarragona and Figueres.
